50 injured and one patient in hospital after coach full of schoolchildren overturns in Wirral

A school coach has overturned on the M53 in Wirral, Merseyside, leaving nearly 50 people injured and a major incident declared.

The accident took place at around 8.30am on Friday morning, National Highways said. Junctions three to five of the M53 are closed in both directions.

On X, formerly known as Twitter, the North West Ambulance Service said: “North West Ambulance Service has declared a major incident following a road traffic collision between a coach and a car on the M53 northbound at approximately 8.30am this morning.

“The trust dispatched a large number of resources to the scene, including ambulances, advanced paramedics, our Hazardous Area Response Team and a HEMS doctor.

“So far, one female patient has been taken to the hospital, suffering major trauma-related injuries. There are also nearly 50 other patients being assessed at the scene.”

In a tweet, Calday Grange Grammar School in West Kirby, Merseyside, posted: “We are aware of a situation involving one of our school buses on the motorway earlier today.

“We’re actively gathering details and assisting affected students and their families.”

National Highways North West said: “The incident occurred shortly after 8am this morning. All emergency services are on scene along with North West Air Ambulance Services.

“National Highways Traffic Officers are on scene providing assistance with traffic management.”

A spokeswoman for Merseyside Police said: “Please note this incident is ongoing and we are urging people to refrain from speculating or publishing any sensitive information that could be distressing online or via social media platforms.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage or CCTV should contact Merseyside Police social media desk via Twitter @MerPolCC quoting 23000944471.

Alternatively, call 101 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

This is a breaking news story and is being updated.